In a world increasingly dependent on technology, understanding risks such as lithium-ion battery fires is crucial. To accommodate this need, State Fire Marshal of Massachusetts, Jon M. Davine, spearheads a project to compile and analyze data on these dangerous occurrences, as highlighted in a recent Department of Fire Services press release.
Fires involving lithium-ion batteries are a growing nationwide concern. New York City has faced the brunt of this issue, with fatalities reaching double digits. Tackling this peril, Massachusetts' Department of Fire Services (DFS) has stepped up to help mitigate the risks.
A new tool central to this program helps in gathering and organizing critical data on lithium-ion battery fires. Massachusetts fire departments, using the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System (MFIRS), report fire data. While the MFIRS mirrors the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS), which collects data on all battery fires, it fails distinguishing between different types. This gap in specific data relating to lithium-ion battery fires impedes the true understanding of the problem's extent or the formulation of targeted regulations or legislation.
The solution envisioned by State Fire Marshal Davine is thorough, assigning the Massachusetts State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit the responsibility to compile extra data when responding to fires likely involving lithium-ion batteries. The additional data includes the device's make and model, purchase location, battery particulars, and whether it was charging when the fire occurred.
Relying on the fact that local fire investigators conduct the majority of fire investigations in Massachusetts, Davine encouraged them to collect this specific information. To streamline the process, DFS has issued a checklist known as Form FP-031, available to all Massachusetts fire departments on DFS's website. Fire Marshal Davine expressed, "We believe these batteries are underreported as a factor in significant fires.”
Lithium-ion batteries, powering electronics like e-cigarettes, smartphones, scooters, e-bikes, and electric vehicles, might fail, often experiencing "thermal runaway," potentially leading to fires spurred by toxic gases and flames, and prove difficult to manage with traditional firefighting equipment.
To mitigate such dangers and prevent lithium-ion battery fires, State Fire Marshal Davine provided safety tips. Suggestions include using original equipment manufacturer's batteries and chargers, proper storage and charging practices, and recognizing signs of battery or device issues such as damage, unusual odors, excessive heat, discoloration, and reshape, prompting immediate disuse.
At the end of a lithium-ion battery's life, correct disposal is essential. Rather than discarding them in ordinary trash, they should be recycled. Battery recycling points can be found at https://www.call2recycle.org/locator/.
